St. Peter’s Basilica tickets and tours

4.2(49,008 ratings)

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St. Peter's Basilica dome view with tourists in St. Peter's Square, Rome.
Tourists exploring the interior of St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, with ornate architecture and religious art.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate ceiling and grand columns in Vatican City.
View of St. Peter's Basilica interior from the dome, showcasing ornate architecture and Vatican City landmarks.
Visitors on St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace in Rome, Italy, overlooking cityscape.
View of St. Peter's Basilica interior from the dome, showcasing ornate architecture and Vatican City landmarks.
St. Peter's Basilica dome interior with intricate mosaics and architectural details, Vatican City.
St. Peter's Basilica exterior with tourists in Vatican City.
St. Peter's Basilica exterior with tourists in Vatican City.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate ceiling and visitors exploring the Vatican City landmark.
St. Peter's Basilica dome view with tourists in St. Peter's Square, Rome.
Tourists exploring the interior of St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, with ornate architecture and religious art.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate ceiling and grand columns in Vatican City.
View of St. Peter's Basilica interior from the dome, showcasing ornate architecture and Vatican City landmarks.
Visitors on St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace in Rome, Italy, overlooking cityscape.
View of St. Peter's Basilica interior from the dome, showcasing ornate architecture and Vatican City landmarks.
St. Peter's Basilica dome interior with intricate mosaics and architectural details, Vatican City.
St. Peter's Basilica exterior with tourists in Vatican City.
St. Peter's Basilica exterior with tourists in Vatican City.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate ceiling and visitors exploring the Vatican City landmark.
St. Peter's Basilica dome view with tourists in St. Peter's Square, Rome.
Tourists exploring the interior of St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, with ornate architecture and religious art.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate ceiling and grand columns in Vatican City.
View of St. Peter's Basilica interior from the dome, showcasing ornate architecture and Vatican City landmarks.
Visitors on St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace in Rome, Italy, overlooking cityscape.
View of St. Peter's Basilica interior from the dome, showcasing ornate architecture and Vatican City landmarks.
St. Peter's Basilica dome interior with intricate mosaics and architectural details, Vatican City.
St. Peter's Basilica exterior with tourists in Vatican City.
St. Peter's Basilica exterior with tourists in Vatican City.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate ceiling and visitors exploring the Vatican City landmark.
Tickets
NEW

St. Peter’s Basilica Skip-the-Line Tickets with Digital Audio Guide

from
€11
Mobile ticket
1 hr.
Audio guide

Entry at your selected time with audio commentary and a mapped route to 27 key highlights.

  • Everything you get: Enter St. Peter’s Basilica at your selected time and explore at your own pace with a multilingual audio guide and a digital map. Cover 27 curated highlights, from Michelangelo’s Pietà to the grand Baldacchino, while discovering centuries of art, faith, and history.
  • Why choose this: Entry to the Basilica is now ticketed—this self-guided tour guarantees your spot and adds structure with audio commentary and a digital map.
  • Upgrades: Climb the Dome for stunning views of Rome. Take the lift partway and climb 300 steps, or go all 551 on foot for a deeper, more rewarding ascent. You’ll get close to intricate mosaics and reach the Basilica’s highest viewpoint. Either way, you’ll see the dome’s interior mosaics up close and access the highest point in Vatican City.

Entry at your selected time with audio commentary and a mapped route to 27 key highlights.

  • Everything you get: Enter St. Peter’s Basilica at your selected time and explore at your own pace with a multilingual audio guide and a digital map. Cover 27 curated highlights, from Michelangelo’s Pietà to the grand Baldacchino, while discovering centuries of art, faith, and history.
  • Why choose this: Entry to the Basilica is now ticketed—this self-guided tour guarantees your spot and adds structure with audio commentary and a digital map.
  • Upgrades: Climb the Dome for stunning views of Rome. Take the lift partway and climb 300 steps, or go all 551 on foot for a deeper, more rewarding ascent. You’ll get close to intricate mosaics and reach the Basilica’s highest viewpoint. Either way, you’ll see the dome’s interior mosaics up close and access the highest point in Vatican City.

Inclusions

  • Direct entry to St. Peter's Basilica
  • Access to the terrace by lift or staircase (as per option selected)
  • Dome entry (as per option selected)
  • Digital audio guide
  • Security checks are mandatory, but ticket holders can bypass the purchase queue.
  • The Digital Audio Guide is smartphone-only—check the included services tab for details on compatibility (operating systems, browsers, languages, etc.).
  • Meet your host at the meeting point to receive entrance tickets and a QR code for the digital audio guide. You will need an internet connection and your own headphones.
  • This activity is not suitable for individuals with heart conditions, claustrophobia, vertigo, breathing difficulties, reduced mobility, or those who are pregnant.
  • Your ticket is time-specific—arrive promptly to allow for security checks. Plan 2–3 hours to explore the Basilica and ascend the Dome.
  • This experience is perfect for ages 6 and up, with adults required to accompany those under 16.
  • Pets and infants aren't allowed.
  • The Dome’s lift stops at the first terrace, with 320 steps to the top, making it inaccessible for wheelchairs.
  • Sleeveless or low-cut clothes, shorts above the knee, miniskirts, and hats are not permitted.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Visitors on St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace in Rome, Italy, overlooking cityscape.
St. Peter’s Basilica Dome view from the rooftop in Rome during a guided tour.
Statues on the  St. Peter’s Basilica Terrace
Visitors on St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace in Rome, Italy, overlooking cityscape.
View from St. Peter’s Basilica Dome overlooking Vatican City rooftops and Rome skyline.
Visitors descending the dome of St. Peter's Basilica, Rome, with panoramic city views.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate dome and intricate architectural details in Rome.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate dome and intricate architectural details in Rome.
Statue of St Sebastian at St. Peter’s Basilica
Details of the Interiors of St. Peter’s Basilica
Visitors on St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace in Rome, Italy, overlooking cityscape.
St. Peter’s Basilica Dome view from the rooftop in Rome during a guided tour.
Statues on the  St. Peter’s Basilica Terrace
Visitors on St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace in Rome, Italy, overlooking cityscape.
View from St. Peter’s Basilica Dome overlooking Vatican City rooftops and Rome skyline.
Visitors descending the dome of St. Peter's Basilica, Rome, with panoramic city views.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate dome and intricate architectural details in Rome.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate dome and intricate architectural details in Rome.
Statue of St Sebastian at St. Peter’s Basilica
Details of the Interiors of St. Peter’s Basilica
Visitors on St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace in Rome, Italy, overlooking cityscape.
St. Peter’s Basilica Dome view from the rooftop in Rome during a guided tour.
Statues on the  St. Peter’s Basilica Terrace
Visitors on St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace in Rome, Italy, overlooking cityscape.
View from St. Peter’s Basilica Dome overlooking Vatican City rooftops and Rome skyline.
Visitors descending the dome of St. Peter's Basilica, Rome, with panoramic city views.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate dome and intricate architectural details in Rome.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate dome and intricate architectural details in Rome.
Statue of St Sebastian at St. Peter’s Basilica
Details of the Interiors of St. Peter’s Basilica
Guided Tours
4.0(6,951)

St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour

from
€14.95
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. - 3 hr.

Gain insights into the art, history, and spiritual legacy of St. Peter’s with a licensed guide, and climb the Dome for stunning views over Vatican City.

  • Everything you get: Explore the interiors of the basilica with a local expert guide who brings context to its sculptures, mosaics, and sacred spaces—including Michelangelo’s Pietà and the Papal Crypts in the Vatican Grottoes. Then, ride the elevator partway up the Dome and climb the final stretch of stairs to reach the top, where panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome await.
  • Why choose this: The Basilica is vast, layered with centuries of history and symbolism. Instead of wandering without context, this tour gives you structure, stories, and expert insight—plus access to one of its most iconic experiences: the climb to the top of the Dome.

Gain insights into the art, history, and spiritual legacy of St. Peter’s with a licensed guide, and climb the Dome for stunning views over Vatican City.

  • Everything you get: Explore the interiors of the basilica with a local expert guide who brings context to its sculptures, mosaics, and sacred spaces—including Michelangelo’s Pietà and the Papal Crypts in the Vatican Grottoes. Then, ride the elevator partway up the Dome and climb the final stretch of stairs to reach the top, where panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome await.
  • Why choose this: The Basilica is vast, layered with centuries of history and symbolism. Instead of wandering without context, this tour gives you structure, stories, and expert insight—plus access to one of its most iconic experiences: the climb to the top of the Dome.

Inclusions

  • Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and Dome with entry
  • Expert English, Spanish, French, German or Italian-speaking guide
  • Access by elevator to the base and stairs to the top
  • Breakfast (for French and English options, if selected)

Exclusions

  • Entry to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
  • Entry to the Necropolis / St. Peter’s Tomb / Scavi
  • The Dome is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with vertigo or claustrophobia. Even with elevator access, 320 steps must be climbed to reach the cupola.
  • Knees and shoulders must be covered for all guests.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
St. Peter’s Basilica facade with tourists in Vatican City.
Visitors exploring the Vatican Museums with a guide, viewing art and architecture, Rome, Italy.
Vatican Museums guided tour with visitors admiring Sistine Chapel ceiling in Rome.
Vatican Museum Gallery visitors admiring artwork in Sistine Chapel, Rome.
Tour group admiring Sistine Chapel ceiling during Vatican Museums guided tour, Rome.
Vatican Museums guided tour group viewing Sistine Chapel ceiling artwork.
Visitors on St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace in Rome, Italy, overlooking cityscape.
St. Peter’s Basilica facade with tourists in Vatican City.
Visitors exploring the Vatican Museums with a guide, viewing art and architecture, Rome, Italy.
Vatican Museums guided tour with visitors admiring Sistine Chapel ceiling in Rome.
Vatican Museum Gallery visitors admiring artwork in Sistine Chapel, Rome.
Tour group admiring Sistine Chapel ceiling during Vatican Museums guided tour, Rome.
Vatican Museums guided tour group viewing Sistine Chapel ceiling artwork.
Visitors on St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace in Rome, Italy, overlooking cityscape.
St. Peter’s Basilica facade with tourists in Vatican City.
Visitors exploring the Vatican Museums with a guide, viewing art and architecture, Rome, Italy.
Vatican Museums guided tour with visitors admiring Sistine Chapel ceiling in Rome.
Vatican Museum Gallery visitors admiring artwork in Sistine Chapel, Rome.
Tour group admiring Sistine Chapel ceiling during Vatican Museums guided tour, Rome.
Vatican Museums guided tour group viewing Sistine Chapel ceiling artwork.
Visitors on St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace in Rome, Italy, overlooking cityscape.
Guided Tours
4.2(17,165)

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour

from
€65
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr. - 3 hr.

Explore all three Vatican highlights with skip-the-line access to the Museums and exclusive entry to the basilica via a hidden passage.

Everything you get: Skip the ticketing queues and follow your expert guide through the Vatican Museums, including the Gallery of Maps, Raphael Rooms, and more. Get all the context you need before stepping into the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s masterpieces. Enter St. Peter’s Basilica directly—skipping the 2-hour queue—through a special passageway from the Chapel.

Why choose this: This shortcut takes you straight from the Sistine Chapel into St. Peter’s Basilica, saving you hours of waiting. With over a millennium of history, St. Peter’s is packed with must-see treasures, and your guide ensures you don’t miss the iconic rooms and hidden stories you'd likely miss on your own.

Upgrade: Go for a fully guided tour inside St. Peter’s Basilica for a deeper, more immersive experience. Explore with an expert who brings its history to life and gain deeper context inside one of the world’s most important churches.

Explore all three Vatican highlights with skip-the-line access to the Museums and exclusive entry to the basilica via a hidden passage.

Everything you get: Skip the ticketing queues and follow your expert guide through the Vatican Museums, including the Gallery of Maps, Raphael Rooms, and more. Get all the context you need before stepping into the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s masterpieces. Enter St. Peter’s Basilica directly—skipping the 2-hour queue—through a special passageway from the Chapel.

Why choose this: This shortcut takes you straight from the Sistine Chapel into St. Peter’s Basilica, saving you hours of waiting. With over a millennium of history, St. Peter’s is packed with must-see treasures, and your guide ensures you don’t miss the iconic rooms and hidden stories you'd likely miss on your own.

Upgrade: Go for a fully guided tour inside St. Peter’s Basilica for a deeper, more immersive experience. Explore with an expert who brings its history to life and gain deeper context inside one of the world’s most important churches.

Inclusions

  • Guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with skip-the-line entry
  • Skip-the-line entry to St. Peter's Basilica
  • Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica (as per option selected)
  • Expert English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese-speaking guide
  • Headphones

Exclusions

  • Gratuities
  • Entry to St. Peter's Basilica Dome
  • Names on tickets must match a valid photo ID. Double-check the details at checkout for a smooth entry.
  • Your ticket includes a specific entry time. Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your chosen slot.
  • Knees, shoulders, and back must be covered for all guests.
  • While the tour is not accessible to wheelchair users, the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments (certified invalidity exceeding 74%) and a companion if required.
  • When in Sistine Chapel, silence is mandatory and photography is prohibited. Guides will provide all necessary and interesting details before entry.
  • Expect a considerable wait at the security line, especially during peak times. Patience is key, it could take up to an hour!
  • Please be aware that during the Jubilee Year, certain areas of the Vatican Museums may be inaccessible due to religious ceremonies. Additionally, entrance to St. Peter's Basilica may also experience unannounced closures. These circumstances are beyond our control. Thank you for your understanding.
  • The Vatican Museums reserve the right to close any section, including the Sistine Chapel, due to unforeseen circumstances. The closure of any museum section does not entitle visitors to any refund.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
View of the Castel Sant Angelo\view of the St. Peter's Basilica
Castel Sant'Angelo, Hadrian's Mausoleum, ROme
Tour guide showing Jubilee Silver Pass holders around the historic Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome, Italy
St. Peter's Basilica dome interior with intricate mosaics and architectural details, Rome.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with Bernini's Baldacchino under the dome in Vatican City.
Tour guide leading group at Castel Sant'Angelo, Rome, part of Jubilee Silver Pass tour.
Interior view of Castel Sant'Angelo showcasing ancient stone walls and arched corridors in Rome, Italy.
St. Peter's Basilica dome view with Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome during guided tour.
Interior of St. Peter's Basilica, Rome
View of the Castel Sant Angelo\view of the St. Peter's Basilica
Castel Sant'Angelo, Hadrian's Mausoleum, ROme
Tour guide showing Jubilee Silver Pass holders around the historic Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome, Italy
St. Peter's Basilica dome interior with intricate mosaics and architectural details, Rome.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with Bernini's Baldacchino under the dome in Vatican City.
Tour guide leading group at Castel Sant'Angelo, Rome, part of Jubilee Silver Pass tour.
Interior view of Castel Sant'Angelo showcasing ancient stone walls and arched corridors in Rome, Italy.
St. Peter's Basilica dome view with Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome during guided tour.
Interior of St. Peter's Basilica, Rome
View of the Castel Sant Angelo\view of the St. Peter's Basilica
Castel Sant'Angelo, Hadrian's Mausoleum, ROme
Tour guide showing Jubilee Silver Pass holders around the historic Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome, Italy
St. Peter's Basilica dome interior with intricate mosaics and architectural details, Rome.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with Bernini's Baldacchino under the dome in Vatican City.
Tour guide leading group at Castel Sant'Angelo, Rome, part of Jubilee Silver Pass tour.
Interior view of Castel Sant'Angelo showcasing ancient stone walls and arched corridors in Rome, Italy.
St. Peter's Basilica dome view with Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome during guided tour.
Interior of St. Peter's Basilica, Rome
Combos
4.1(2,306)

Combo (Save 5%): Castel Sant'Angelo + St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour

from €54.95
€52.20

5% off

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Guided tour

From battlefields to basilicas, explore 2,000 years of Roman history in just one morning.

Everything you get: Walk through Castel Sant'Angelo's secret passageways and military exhibits with an expert guide. See St. Peter's Basilica, home to Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s grand Baldachin, and descend into the Vatican Grottoes to see the Papal Tombs.

Why choose this: You get to see both the world's largest church and a 2,000-year-old mausoleum-turned-fortress in one shot. With an expert guiding you at both stops, you'll not only see Rome’s history—you’ll understand how power, politics, and faith shaped it.

From battlefields to basilicas, explore 2,000 years of Roman history in just one morning.

Everything you get: Walk through Castel Sant'Angelo's secret passageways and military exhibits with an expert guide. See St. Peter's Basilica, home to Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s grand Baldachin, and descend into the Vatican Grottoes to see the Papal Tombs.

Why choose this: You get to see both the world's largest church and a 2,000-year-old mausoleum-turned-fortress in one shot. With an expert guiding you at both stops, you'll not only see Rome’s history—you’ll understand how power, politics, and faith shaped it.

Inclusions

Castel Sant’Angelo

  • Guided tour of Castel Sant'Angelo with entry
  • Expert English-speaking guide
  • Group of up to 20 guests

St. Peter’s Basilica

  • Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and the Papal Tombs
  • Expert English-speaking guide

Castel Sant’Angelo

  • Only some areas of the castle are suitable for the use of prams/strollers and wheelchairs.
  • If you are visiting with a baby or a toddler, get a carrier.
  • Keep in mind that your ticket is nominative, and you must present a valid ID matching your full name on the ticket for entry.
  • Spot the Passetto di Borgo, the secret passage used by Popes to flee from Castel Sant’Angelo to Vatican City.

St. Peter’s Basilica

  • Strict dress code: knees and shoulders must be covered for all guests.
  • This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible. The right semicircle of Saint Peter’s Square is equipped with ramp access into the Basilica. For any special requirements, contact accoglienza@fsp.va in advance.
  • Sign language guided tours are available at the Basilica. This service must be booked at least 48 hours in advance at the following email address: visiteguidate@fsp.va.
  • Expect mandatory security screening. The wait at St. Peter’s Basilica may take up to an hour during peak times.
  • St. Peter’s Basilica is wheelchair and stroller-friendly (ramps available in the right semicircle of the square). Only some areas of Castel Sant’Angelo are accessible.
  • Papal Tombs access may be restricted during religious events. In such cases, extra time will be spent inside the Basilica.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Visitors exploring St. Peter’s Basilica interior with ornate architecture on guided tour in Vatican City.
St. Peter Square Obelisk
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate dome and intricate architectural details in Rome.
Vatican grottoes with visitors exploring the Papal Tomb.
Statue of St Sebastian at St. Peter’s Basilica
Tour group with guide at St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, exploring architecture and historical landmarks.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate dome and intricate architectural details in Rome.
The Pietà statue inside St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, with visitors observing.
Dappled light thru windows of St. Peter’s Basilica Dome
St. Peter’s Basilica facade with tourists in Vatican City.
Visitors exploring St. Peter’s Basilica interior with ornate architecture on guided tour in Vatican City.
St. Peter Square Obelisk
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate dome and intricate architectural details in Rome.
Vatican grottoes with visitors exploring the Papal Tomb.
Statue of St Sebastian at St. Peter’s Basilica
Tour group with guide at St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, exploring architecture and historical landmarks.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate dome and intricate architectural details in Rome.
The Pietà statue inside St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, with visitors observing.
Dappled light thru windows of St. Peter’s Basilica Dome
St. Peter’s Basilica facade with tourists in Vatican City.
Visitors exploring St. Peter’s Basilica interior with ornate architecture on guided tour in Vatican City.
St. Peter Square Obelisk
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate dome and intricate architectural details in Rome.
Vatican grottoes with visitors exploring the Papal Tomb.
Statue of St Sebastian at St. Peter’s Basilica
Tour group with guide at St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, exploring architecture and historical landmarks.
St. Peter's Basilica interior with ornate dome and intricate architectural details in Rome.
The Pietà statue inside St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, with visitors observing.
Dappled light thru windows of St. Peter’s Basilica Dome
St. Peter’s Basilica facade with tourists in Vatican City.
Guided Tours
3.7(271)

St. Peter’s Basilica, Square, and Papal Tombs Guided Tour

from
€39
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. 10 min. - 1 hr. 30 min.
  • Immerse in an enlightening guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica, the world's largest Basilica, and Vatican City's captivating Papal Grottoes.
  • Marvel at the breathtaking interiors of the Basilica, a spectacular showcase of art by Michelangelo and Bernini. Choose between an English or Italian-speaking guide.
  • Experience the convergence of art, history, and religion at the Basilica, and walk the hallowed ground where numerous popes rest in the Papal Grottoes.
  • This tour also includes a visit to the iconic St. Peter’s Square, ending on a high note with directions to the mesmerizing St. Peter's Dome.
  • Immerse in an enlightening guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica, the world's largest Basilica, and Vatican City's captivating Papal Grottoes.
  • Marvel at the breathtaking interiors of the Basilica, a spectacular showcase of art by Michelangelo and Bernini. Choose between an English or Italian-speaking guide.
  • Experience the convergence of art, history, and religion at the Basilica, and walk the hallowed ground where numerous popes rest in the Papal Grottoes.
  • This tour also includes a visit to the iconic St. Peter’s Square, ending on a high note with directions to the mesmerizing St. Peter's Dome.

Inclusions

  • Tour of St. Peter's Basilica, Square and Grottoes
  • Expert English or Italian-speaking guide
  • Entrance to the St. Peter's Basilica
  • Assistance from a local staff

Exclusions

  • Entry to St. Peter's Dome
  • Tip: Keep an eye out for Bernini's Baldachin - it's a massive bronze canopy made from bronze stripped from the Pantheon!
  • Shoulders and knees must be covered. No low-cut, sleeveless tops or shorts will be permitted. You may risk being denied entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
  • Note that the following items are not allowed inside the venue: tripods and flash photography.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

St. Peter's Basilica | The largest church in the world

You can't visit Vatican City without seeing St. Peter's Basilica, home to a dome so tall you could fit the State of Liberty inside! The basilica stands on the burial ground of St. Peter, the first Pope and one of the Apostles of Jesus. Completed in 1626 by artists like Raphael, Bernini, Bramante, and of course, Michelangelo, with material stolen from other Roman buildings, the church serves as a prime example of Renaissance-era Baroque-style architecture. It took two centuries to build, but you could say it was worth it.

Things to know before booking St Peter's Basilica tickets

  • Tickets are limited and highly sought after, especially during Jubilee season, so booking at least 3–4 weeks in advance is recommended.
  • Climbing the Dome is a highlight for many visitors, with two options: - Take the elevator to the first level, then climb 320 steps to the top. - Brave the full climb of 551 steps for a more adventurous experience. While the breathtaking views are worth the effort, note that the Dome is not wheelchair accessible, and tickets often sell out quickly during peak times.
  • St. Peter’s Basilica is vast and brimming with history, art, and architecture that can feel overwhelming to navigate solo. A guided tour dives into the rich details of its treasures, while audio guides in multiple languages are great for exploring at your own pace. Both are excellent options for uncovering the basilica’s fascinating stories.
  • Want to see the best of the Vatican in one seamless visit? Combo tickets offer access to the “holy trinity” of attractions: St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel. These tours even allow you to use a special door to enter the basilica directly from the Sistine Chapel, saving time and bypassing a long queue.
  • All visitors must pass through security checks, which can result in long lines often 2 hours long. While guided tours help streamline your visit, they cannot bypass security, so arriving early is essential.
  • If you’re visiting during Jubilee season, a Papal Audience is a unique opportunity to see the Pope in person. These tours include guaranteed seating and guides who explain the event’s significance. For a complete experience, consider combining the audience with Basilica access.
  • Just a short walk from St. Peter’s Basilica, Castel Sant’Angelo offers panoramic views, intriguing artifacts, and a rich history as a mausoleum-turned-papal fortress. Linked by the Passetto di Borgo, a secret papal passage, these landmarks tell a story of Vatican resilience and Roman ingenuity. A combo guided tour offers deeper insights into their shared legacy.

Your St. Peter’s Basilica tickets explained

Once you’ve decided how you’d like to explore St. Peter’s Basilica, here’s a breakdown of ticket options to help you choose the perfect experience:

St. Peter’s Basilica

Audio guide tours

Duration: Flexible

  • Explore St. Peter's Basilica at your own pace with an informative audio guide.
  • Includes entry to climb St. Peter's Basilica Dome.
  • Audio guide available in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Chinese.
  • Gain elevator access to the dome’s base and stairs to the top.

Recommended tour

St. Peter's Basilica Dome Tickets with Audio Guide

St. Peter's Basilica Guided tours
St. Peter's Basilica dome climb

Dome access

Duration: 2 - 3 hrs

  • Climb St. Peter’s Basilica Dome with a local expert who shares the fascinating stories behind this architectural masterpiece.
  • Admire panoramic views of the Pope’s private gardens, election chimney, railway station, and helipad from the top.

Recommended tours

  • St. Peter's Basilica Dome Tickets with Audio Guide
  • St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour with Dome Access
St. Peter’s Basilica

Papal Audience

Duration: 3 - 5 hrs

  • Attend the Wednesday Papal audience with guaranteed seating in St. Peter's Square, accompanied by peaceful hymns led by the Pope.
  • Combine your experience with a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, its chapels, and the Papal tombs for a complete visit.

Recommended tour

  • Papal Audience Viewing Experience

Experience the Jubilee at St. Peter’s Basilica – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Celebration

Every 25 years, St. Peter’s Basilica becomes the heart of a monumental tradition—where faith, history, and renewal come together. More than just an event, the Jubilee is a rare spiritual milestone, offering a chance for reflection, forgiveness, and a renewed sense of purpose.

  • A centuries-old tradition, the Jubilee invites pilgrims to seek renewal and grace through the Holy Doors of St. Peter’s.
  • Beyond the ceremonies, it’s a profound journey of faith, unity, and rediscovery of what truly matters.
  • Happening only once every 25 years, this extraordinary experience brings exclusive rites, blessings, and spiritual encounters you won’t want to miss.

Join a once-in-a-generation celebration at St. Peter’s Basilica for the Jubilee.

Plan your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica

Timings
Mass
Location
Accessibility
Facilities
Rules
Dress code
St. Peter's Basilica Timings
St Peter's Basilica Mass

Weekdays: 7am, 7.30am, 8:30am, 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 5pm, 6pm, 9pm

Public holidays: 7am, 8am, 9am, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6pm

Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City

Find on maps

Getting there

By metro: Line A
Nearest stop: Ottaviano
By bus: 64, 34, 98, N98, 190F, 881, N904
Nearest stop: Cavalleggeri/Gregorio VII, P.za Stazione Pietro, Monte Del Gallo
By car: via Corso Vittorio Emanuele II

Car parking

Parking Risorgimento: This covered car park is located just 10-minute walk from St. Peter's Square. You will have to leave your keys at the car park. Garage San Pietro: The car park is located on Via di Santa Maria alle Fornaci, 26 – 165. The car park is a 5-minute walk away from Vatican City.

St. Peter's Basilica

While the basilica is wheelchair accessible, the dome climb is not suited for wheelchair users.

St. Peter's Basilica
  • Cloak room
  • Restrooms
  • Rooftop snack shop
  • Audioguides
  • Elevators
  • Ambulance hotline
St. Peter's Basilica

Restricted items include:

  • Knives, scissors, hazardous materials and metal weapons
  • Tripods and video cameras
  • Umbrellas
  • Large bags and rucksacks
  • Food and drink.
St. Peter's Basilica

The Vatican has a strict dress code that visitors must adhere to. Low-cut or sleeveless tops, shorts, miniskirts, etc. are not permitted inside St. Peter’s Basilica.

Frequently asked questions about St. Peter's Basilica tickets

Can I purchase tickets on-site?

Absolutely! You can purchase tickets on-site—guided tour tickets are available at the desk, and dome tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance. However, we do recommend buying tickets online in advance to secure your spot and avoid potential wait times.

How can a guided tour improve my St. Peter’s Basilica experience?

A guided tour can greatly enhance your experience by providing expert insights into its rich history, architecture, and art. A knowledgeable guide can share fascinating stories, explain the significance of the Basilica's features, and answer any questions you might have, making your visit more engaging and informative.

Where is the St. Peter’s Basilica entrance?

To enter St. Peter’s Basilica, you would have to use its main entrance at St. Peter’s Square. Temporarily, the entrance through the Sistine Chapel has been closed to the public.

How do I decide between an in-person guide and an audio guide?

If you want to explore St. Peter's Basilica at your own pace while learning about its history, an audio guide is ideal. On the other hand, an in-person guide offers a more personalized experience, providing insights and answering questions on the spot. This option is especially beneficial for those who appreciate detailed explanations and interaction during their visit.

How do I get to St. Peter’s Basilica?

St. Peter’s Basilica is easily accessible by public transport. Take a metro to the Ottaviano Station located near the Vatican Walls. From there, it is a short 5-minute walk to St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican Museums.

If I'm a non-English speaker, does the guided tour still benefit me?

Yes, since tours are available in non-English languages such as German, French, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese as well.

What is the cancellation policy for St. Peter’s Basilica tickets?

It depends on the St. Peter’s Basilica ticket you choose to book. While some tickets offer a full refund on canceling tickets up to 24-48 hours in advance, for others there may be no refund available on cancellation. Please check before you make your reservation.

Are there any guided tours available in sign language?

Yes, sign language guided tours are offered at the Basilica and must be reserved at least 48 hours in advance by contacting: visiteguidate@fsp.va.

Should I purchase tickets for the Dome if I’m traveling with elderly parents?

The climb to the top of the Dome involves a significant number of steps and requires a good level of physical fitness. It is not recommended for individuals with heart or back conditions, mobility issues, or those who are in the later stages of pregnancy. Therefore, it may not be suitable for elderly parents with these concerns.

Can I bring children along?

Yes, you can! The Basilica is a family-friendly destination, and children are welcome to explore its vast and awe-inspiring spaces. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the Basilica is a place of worship, so children should be encouraged to remain respectful and quiet during the visit. There’s a lot for them to see, from the architecture to the impressive art, which can make the experience enjoyable and educational.

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